Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) created an awkward moment during an Oval Office press conference on Monday by effusively praising President Donald Trump's intervention in a World Cup disciplinary decision.
American forward Folarin Balogun had been handed a red card during the U.S. match against Bosnia and Herzegovina on Wednesday, which would have resulted in an automatic one-game suspension for Monday's game against Belgium. However, FIFA reversed the suspension on Sunday after Trump reportedly asked officials to review the call, despite there being no formal appeals process for such bans.
FIFA Cites Disciplinary Code
FIFA justified its reversal by citing an article in its disciplinary code that allows a “judicial body” to “fully or partially suspend the implementation of a disciplinary measure.” While Trump appeared pleased with the outcome, he seemed reluctant to highlight his role in the matter.
During a press conference to promote Trump Accounts, a new federal savings account for children, Cruz publicly thanked the president for his efforts. “On behalf of all Americans, thank you for getting rid of that ridiculous red card,” Cruz said.
The remark was met with nervous laughter from others in the room and a pained smile from Trump, who responded, “That was interesting.” The exchange mirrored the tone of a Southern “bless your heart” comment.
Trump Denies Undue Influence
Trump appeared miffed by the compliment, as it suggested improper influence. He quickly attempted damage control, insisting, “All I did was ask for a review. I didn’t say, ‘You have to do this.’”
Cruz, however, continued to praise the president, calling the intervention “spectacular” and noting that a FIFA trophy had been displayed in the Oval Office.
Social Media Backlash
The exchange sparked widespread criticism on social media, with many accusing Trump and FIFA of corruption. Franklin Leonard tweeted, “Has no one told these idiots that you don’t publicly gloat when your corruption succeeds?” Courtney Theriault added, “'Thank you for your corruption' is the new 'thank you for your service.'”
Hemant Mehta wrote, “Republicans are laughing about how corrupt FIFA is and how it benefits the U.S.” Another user, Gandalv, claimed the incident was “the clearest proof yet that the US could not host a World Cup without their crying president calling FIFA every time their soft men’s team faces…”
Critics also targeted Cruz directly. Moog tweeted, “This obsequious little cunt has never watched a second of football in his miserable fucking life. But more than that, he's just totally confirmed Trump's role in the overturning of Balogun's red card.”
Jennifer Erin Valent lamented, “Remember when the adults used to caution that cheaters never prosper? I do. And I miss it dearly.”
